As America approaches the 2024 presidential election, fears of civil unrest rise amid a contentious contest between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump.
At a Glance
- Businesses and governments brace for potential unrest, especially if election results are close.
- Kamala Harris and Donald Trump’s race is seen as a virtual national tie.
- Post-election periods pose a greater risk of unrest, especially if results face legal challenges.
- Authorities investigate incidents involving incendiary devices at ballot drop boxes.
- Security companies face rising demand due to election-related threats.
Preparing for Potential Civil Unrest
Businesses nationwide are taking precautions against potential civil unrest as tensions heighten ahead of the 2024 U.S. presidential election. If results are close, the risk of upheaval increases significantly. Authorities and corporations are implementing comprehensive strategies to safeguard against these looming threats. Security measures focus not only on Election Day but also on the critical period following the voting, including vote certification and inauguration day, which could ignite the nation’s polarized climate.
The closely watched race between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump remains a virtual tie nationally. This uncertain outcome exacerbates businesses’ and citizens’ concerns about unrest. Security companies have reported unprecedented demand for their services, reflecting apprehensions over possible violent outcomes stemming from potential legal disputes and polarized political allegiances.
Post-Election Tensions and Security Concerns
Authorities anticipate greater threats of unrest after the election, especially if results are contested in court. In Washington and Oregon, investigations continue into incendiary devices found near ballot drop boxes, symptoms of a politically charged climate. Efforts to protect against voter intimidation are in place, with officials prepared to mitigate security concerns. Rachel Brown, a security expert, emphasized the localized nature of potential threats: “I wouldn’t expect us to see a high level of organized violence. People should feel safe voting, and if there is any danger, it’s likely to be very highly localized, such as a single person taking action where there seem to be groups trying to mobilize.”
With high stakes in play, businesses in major cities like Portland are proactively boarding up windows to safeguard against potential unrest. Risk management firm Verisk ranks the United States among the top five countries with significant civil unrest risk over the next year. Given their dense populations and historical backdrops of conflict, urban centers such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Houston might experience heightened tensions following the election, especially if Trump loses.
Heightened Security and Vigilance
Efforts to ensure public safety extend to infrastructure protection as governmental bodies and security agencies collaborate. The rising demand for private security services underscores how seriously Americans are taking the threat of election-related disturbances. As Glen Kucera noted, “The threat is kind of imminent and everywhere,” signaling the pervasive anxiety sweeping the nation as the election nears. Both government and private sectors are advised to maintain high vigilance during this pivotal period.
Addressing these concerns requires a coordinated effort by communities, law enforcement, and policymakers to foster a peaceful election process. Efforts continue to assure the public that despite current fears, participation in the democratic process remains safe and protected. As Americans prepare to exercise their right to vote, the focus shifts towards preserving peace and upholding the integrity of the nation’s democratic framework.
Sources:
The US is bracing for civil unrest around the election. But just how high is the risk?
